Normal business hours in Dublin are from 09:00 to 17:30, with some variations according to the type of business. While most offices are only open from Monday to Friday, many shopping outlets are open on the weekends. 

Banks: 09:00 to 17:30, Monday to Friday; 09:00 to 12:00 on Saturdays
Post Offices: 09:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: 09:00 to 17:30, daily, some closed on Sundays
Museums: 09:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday, some open on weekends
Business Offices: 09:00 to 17:30, Monday to Friday

Overall, the city is a safe destination to visit and holiday-makers who take the recommended precautions should have a safe and enjoyable time in the city. As in any city, it is important to keep an eye on your belongings, particularly when on public transport or in a busy bar. Bag snatching and pick-pocketing are not uncommon, nor are car thefts or break-ins. It is advisable to only park your rental car in a secure car park at all times. If you choose to get about the city by bicycle, it is wise to lock both wheels, with many locals choosing to take their bike seat with them rather than risk it getting stolen.

At night, visitors should not wander around parts of the city that they are unfamiliar with or in poorly lit areas. If you are staying in one of the cheap hostel areas in the north of the city, be aware that drugs in the streets here are a problem, which also heightens the added risk of crime in these parts too.

Electricity: 240V at 50 Hz

There are no major health concerns for visitors to Dublin, although visitors are advised to be up-to-date with standard vaccinations prior to travelling. Those visitors who encounter health problems during their stay can be treated at any of the city’s major hospitals, or for minor medical complaints, there are hundreds of pharmacies, doctor’s surgeries and clinics spread across the city. Health care throughout the Republic meets with international standards. 

Ambulance: 112 / 999

Beaumont Hospital
Beaumont road
Dublin 9
Tel: +353 1 8093000 

Rotunda Hospital
Parnell Street
Dublin 1
Tel: +353 1 8730700

The official languages in the Republic of Ireland are English and Irish, with the learning of both being compulsory in schools. However, despite many signs being bilingual, you will find Dublin to be almost entirely populated by English-speaking residents.

The official languages in the Republic of Ireland are English and Irish, with the learning of both being compulsory in schools. However, despite many signs being bilingual, you will find Dublin to be almost entirely populated by English-speaking residents.

Banks and currency exchange counters are available at Dublin International Airport as well as in the city centre and suburbs. Tourist areas of the city, such as Temple Bar district, have conveniently-located exchange counters, while ATMs are also spread liberally. Shopping malls are also great places to look if you are in need of and ATM, with most major cards accepted. There are bank branches across the city, which offer better rates than some of the exchange counters.

Visitors from EU countries may bring in up to 3,200 cigarettes or 200 cigars; 10 litres of spirits or 20 litres of fortified wine, 60 litres of sparkling wine, 90 litres of still wine; 110 litres of beer; and 60mls of perfume or 250mls of eau de toilette. Those arriving from outside the EU can import up to 200 cigarettes; 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine; and other dutiable goods to the value of 180 euros.

Visitors to Ireland should note that smoking is banned in all places of work including pubs; therefore, smokers should always be careful about where they choose to spark up, as they could end up with a hefty fine. 

The Irish are among the world’s most hospitable people, with locals often keen to engage in conversation with foreigners, especially over a pint at a pub. The Irish are renowned for being great storytellers and you should never interrupt an Irish storyteller at work however drunk they are! Dubliners are proud of their country and heritage and they love to joke, drink and tease. Visitors should not take their jovial nature too seriously. There is still some unpleasant sentiment against the British for the centuries-long occupation of the island and it may be best to avoid any detailed political discussions if you sense the mood could turn sour. 

On a more practical note, taxi drivers are not normally tipped unless it is easier to round up the fare, while it is also common to thank bus drivers and hold doors open for people.

It is normal to tip 10 per cent in restaurants, while people do not commonly tip in bars and pubs. The majority of Dubliners do not eat out more than once or twice a month, as dining out can be expensive. Residents of the city are more likely to eat at home with their family or friends each night and they frequently stretch their hospitality to inviting guests to dine at home with them. 

If you are invited to dine with Irish people, it is polite to wait until all members of your party are seated and have been served before you start eating. Do not be surprised if your host insists you take a generous portion as well as seconds. It is polite to try everything you are served and to finish all the food on your plate. To indicate you have finished, place your knife and fork parallel to each other on the right hand side of your plate, but be sure to save room for dessert, as Irish desserts are often irresistible.

EU citizens do not require a visa for entering Ireland as well as most Western countries. UK nationals can enter the Republic without a passport. All other nationalities should check with their nearest Irish consulate or embassy prior to their departure.

Dublin Tourism Centre provides all the information a visitor to Dublin might need. The building is situated in the former Church of St Andrew on Suffolk Street. Services available here include assistance with tours, foreign currency exchange, details on transport and timetables and car rental bookings.
Website: http://www.visitdublin.com